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Benbatl third in Craven Stakes

21 April 2017

Benbatl ran a good race to finish third on his Pattern debut in the G3 Craven Stakes over a mile at Newmarket, UK, on Thursday, April 20.

Making his second start following a maiden win at Doncaster on April 2, the Saeed bin Suroor-trained son of Dubawi raced freely in third of a group of four towards the stands’ side as the seven runners split into two early on.

He quickened smartly for Silvestre De Sousa entering the final quarter mile and briefly disputed the running passing the furlong pole.

Benbatl kept on but was passed for second near the line to go down by two lengths in total.

Eminent won by a length and three-quarters over Rivet in 1m 35.15s on good to firm ground, with a neck back to the Godolphin colt.

Saeed bin Suroor commented: “Benbatl ran well, although he didn’t handle the good to firm ground. We will keep the options open but he will be better on easier going.

“He could run in the G1 2,000 Guineas (1m, Newmarket, May 6) or the G1 Poule d’Essai des Poulains (1m, Deauville, May 14) providing the ground is suitable, or may head to York for the G2 Dante Stakes (1m 2f 88y, May 18).”